Things I Wish I Had During Chemo: Essentials for You and Your Chemo Bag

Going through chemotherapy is an experience no one can fully prepare for. As much as doctors and well-meaning friends might tell you what to expect, there are always little things that surprise you along the way. Unfortunately, you may not be able to predict the worst days after chemo treatment. But, whether you’re facing chemo yourself or supporting someone who is, it’s worth thinking ahead about the clothing, comforts, and small items that can make a big difference in day-to-day life during treatment. 

We’re sharing some of the things we wish we’d known to gather in advance, along with a few lesser-known chemotherapy side effects and tips that might make the journey just a bit easier.

1. Comfortable, Accessible Clothing

Chemotherapy sessions can take hours, and you often end up sitting in a recliner in a chilly infusion room. The last thing you want is to feel uncomfortable in restrictive or difficult-to-manage clothing. Here’s where specialized hospital gowns and adaptive pajamas designed for chemotherapy and recovery, like those offered by KickIt Pajamas, can be game-changers to include in your chemo bag for those with an overnight hospital stay.  For women who are going to infusion centers, you’ll want to wear normal “street clothes” that are also adaptive to allow for easy medical access - including specialized items like the KickIt Cardigan or KickIt Cape, both with snap functionality to make it easy to take off/put on while connected to medical devices, are a game changer!

Key Features to Look For:

• Soft, Breathable Fabrics: Chemo can make your skin super sensitive, so, if you’re hospitalized during treatment, look for pajamas and gowns made from soft, high-quality materials that won’t irritate. For women who are visiting infusion centers for a few hours in between life’s other activities, look for adaptive apparel that allows you to layer without having to detach. 
• Accessible Design: Choose chemo port shirts or other clothing with easy access points for IVs and medical ports for chemo. KickIt RecoveryWear is designed with functional openings for easy access, making the process more comfortable.
• Warmth and Coverage: Many people feel colder as effects of chemotherapy due to the medications. Having warm, cozy, full-coverage clothing will help you stay comfortable. One of the absolute best chemo patient gifts is KickIt’s Cape, which features fleece lining and a single underarm button that allows patients to put it on or take it off without detaching from medical equipment.

2. Socks, Blankets and Warm Layers

Chemotherapy rooms are often kept cool, which can be challenging, especially when treatment leaves you feeling extra chilly. Bringing your own blanket or a warm shawl adds a layer of comfort and can help you feel more at home. Weighted blankets are a great option too, as they provide a soothing, calming effect that can ease anxiety.

Bonus Tip: Bring along a cozy pair of socks and fingerless gloves to keep your extremities warm without hindering your ability to read, use a tablet, or write.  KickIt Socks with grippers and fleece lining make the perfect chemo patient gifts.

3. Hydration and Lip Care Essentials

One lesser-known side effect of chemotherapy is dry skin, lips, and mouth. Staying hydrated inside and out is critical, but it’s not always easy when nausea or mouth sores make drinking water uncomfortable.

Essential Items:

• Water Bottle with Straw: It’s easier to sip than gulp, and having a reusable bottle within reach reminds you to keep hydrating.
• Lip Balm and Lotion: Unscented, hypoallergenic products are best, as strong smells can sometimes trigger nausea.
• Mouth Rinse or Mints: Some chemo medications leave an odd taste in your mouth, so keeping mints or a mild mouthwash on hand can be helpful.

4. Small Comforts and Entertainment

Distractions can be incredibly valuable during long treatment sessions. Bring items that help you relax and pass the time in a way that’s soothing for you.

Comfort Items to Pack:

• Noise-Canceling Headphones or Earplugs: Treatment centers can be noisy, so listening to calming music or a favorite podcast can help you relax.
• Tablet or E-Reader: Load it up with your favorite shows, movies, or books. Avoid heavy physical books as your hands and arms may feel tired quickly.
• Journal or Coloring Book: Sometimes, putting your thoughts on paper or engaging in a simple creative activity like coloring can help reduce stress and make you feel more grounded.

6. Recovery Tips I Wish I’d Known

In addition to packing the right items in your chemo bag, there are also a few practical tips that aren’t always discussed but can really help with comfort and recovery during chemo as well as some things not to do while on chemotherapy.

Pace Yourself with Physical Activity: Gentle movement, like stretching or short walks, can make a huge difference in reducing stiffness and improving mood. While it might be tempting to stay curled up in bed, even a few minutes of stretching each day can help with circulation and overall recovery. However, don’t push too hard—just listen to your body and do what feels manageable.

Prioritize Mental Health and Relaxation Techniques: Chemotherapy isn’t just hard on the body; it’s also hard on the mind. Consider bringing along a small book of guided meditations or download a mindfulness app that offers relaxation exercises. Practicing deep breathing or visualization techniques during infusions can help reduce anxiety.

Prepare for “Chemo-Brain”: Chemo brain fog is a common side effect that can cause memory lapses and difficulty focusing. Writing down important information, like medication schedules or doctor’s instructions, can help keep you organized. A notebook, planner, or an app designed for reminders can be a helpful tool to stay on top of things.

Build a Routine for Good Days: Treatment days can be exhausting, but it’s still good to make the most of your better days when you have more energy. Plan small activities or outings that bring you joy and break the monotony. Having a routine, even a simple one, helps to create a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos of treatment.

Think Ahead and Prepare with Care

Going through chemotherapy is incredibly challenging, but being well-prepared can make a world of difference. Whether it’s choosing comfortable, accessible clothing like KickIt Pajamas or packing a few chemo essentials to keep you nourished and entertained, these small actions can ease your journey in significant ways.

If you’re a friend or family member looking to support someone undergoing treatment, consider gifting them some of these essentials as a chemo care package. The right items can offer not only physical comfort but also the emotional reassurance that someone cares. When you’re able to focus less on discomfort and more on recovery, the path becomes a bit easier to navigate.